Listeners:
Top listeners:
play_arrow

by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Washington D.C. Bureau Chief
(Worthy News) – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a historic address to Israel’s parliament on Wednesday, becoming the first Indian leader ever to speak before the Knesset, and pledging to deepen strategic ties between the two democracies.
“The friendship between Israel and India remains a source of strength in an uncertain world,” Modi declared to repeated standing ovations from lawmakers.
Framing both nations as “ancient civilizations” driven by innovation, Modi emphasized expanding cooperation in artificial intelligence, technology, defense, agriculture, and trade. He highlighted India’s rapid economic rise—projecting it will soon rank among the world’s top three economies—while calling Israel a “powerhouse of innovation and technological leadership.”
“Our aspiration spirit aligns naturally with Israel’s innovation ecosystem,” he said, underscoring new efforts to strengthen joint AI development and investment opportunities. Modi pointed to a bilateral investment treaty signed last year as providing “certainty and clear prospects” for businesses in both countries.
In a powerful moment, Modi strongly condemned the October 7 massacre and reaffirmed India’s unwavering support.
“We feel your pain. India stands with Israel firmly, with full conviction in this moment and beyond. Nothing justifies terror,” he said. “Countering terrorism requires sustained and coordinated global action.”
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warmly welcomed Modi, calling him “a great friend of Israel” and even “a brother.”
“Immediately after the horrific massacre on October 7, you stood firmly and clearly by Israel’s side. We will never forget that,” Netanyahu said, praising Modi’s “unwavering” backing.
During the session, Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana awarded Modi the first-ever Knesset Medal, citing his role in forging a strategic alliance and demonstrating “courageous, consistent, and sincere friendship” toward Israel.
Modi also highlighted the contribution of Indian Jews and workers in Israel, including caregivers who served families during difficult times. Referring to the Bnei Menashe community and historic ties dating back to World War I, he noted that more than 4,000 Indian soldiers gave their lives in the region.
Concluding his speech with the declaration “Am Yisrael Chai,” Modi received thunderous applause as lawmakers chanted his name.
The visit includes a tour of Yad Vashem and expanded bilateral meetings in Jerusalem, where the two leaders are expected to sign additional agreements strengthening economic, security, and diplomatic cooperation.
The historic address marks another milestone in the rapidly expanding Israel–India partnership—one both leaders described as a defining alliance in a shifting global landscape.
Copyright 1999-2026 Worthy News. This article was originally published on Worthy News and was reproduced with permission.
The U.N. General Assembly voted Thursday to let Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas address next week’s gathering by video after the United States denied him a visa for the second year in a row. The measure passed 152–3, with four abstentions. The United States, Israel and Paraguay voted against it.
The State Department has approved a possible $24.3 billion sale of 48 F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, bringing the kingdom closer to acquiring one of America’s most advanced warplanes.
For decades, St. Peter’s Evangelical Church in central Tehran was more than a sanctuary. Its ten-acre compound held homes, two schools and offices tied to Iran’s Protestant community. Now the church is closed, its residents have been evicted, and guards have been posted to keep worshippers from returning.
Two figures in the latest Census Bureau report offer a clear sign of economic progress: American households earned more, and a smaller share of the country lived in poverty in 2025.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has welcomed an unprecedented proposal for Canada to become the European Union’s first “associate member” despite threats of economic retaliation from U.S. President Donald J. Trump.
A Hungarian television and radio presenter has been fired after failing to immediately cut off a live caller who suggested using a sniper to “eliminate” Prime Minister Péter Magyar, amid wider concerns over violent political rhetoric in Hungary.
Russia’s attack drones are getting faster, and Ukraine’s defenders are being forced to adapt. New Geran models use turbojet engines instead of the propellers carried by earlier drones, shortening the time between an air-raid warning and a possible strike.
The Psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs encapsulate the beauty, wisdom, and eternal truths found in the Bible, creating an immersive experience that resonates with believers and seekers alike.
Copyright The New Jerusalem Media.